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A Note on Motivated Cognition and Discriminatory Beliefs

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  • Lasse S. Stötzer
  • Florian Zimmermann

Abstract

In this note, we provide evidence that motivated reasoning can be a source of discriminatory beliefs. We employ a representative survey experiment where we exogenously manipulate the presence of a need for justification of anti-social behavior towards an out-group. We provide causal evidence that survey participants devalue members of an out-group to justify taking away money from the group. Our results speak to a long-standing debate on the causes of racism and discrimination and suggest an important role of motivated cognition.

Suggested Citation

  • Lasse S. Stötzer & Florian Zimmermann, 2022. "A Note on Motivated Cognition and Discriminatory Beliefs," CESifo Working Paper Series 10019, CESifo.
    • Handle: RePEc:ces:ceswps:_10019
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    File URL: https://www.cesifo.org/DocDL/cesifo1_wp10019.pdf
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    discrimination; stereotypes; racism; motivated reasoning; beliefs;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D01 - Microeconomics - - General - - - Microeconomic Behavior: Underlying Principles

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